Can Tauranga’s Growth Keep Up Without Falling Behind?
Tauranga, once New Zealand’s fastest-growing city, has enjoyed a boom in residents, job opportunities, and economic growth over the last two decades. But as new families move in and the city expands, Tauranga’s infrastructure has struggled to keep up, especially in its downtown area. Is this growth sustainable, or is the city at risk of losing the vibrancy that drew people there in the first place?
While studying Planning at the University of Waikato I took a closer look at why infrastructure is so critical to Tauranga’s future and what the city is doing to bridge the gap.
Growing pains
Since 2000, Tauranga has seen its population increase by 72%. Many of these new residents have come from other parts of New Zealand, attracted by the city’s beautiful surroundings and (relatively) more affordable housing. Yet, as Tauranga has grown, cracks have started to show, especially in the city center where empty storefronts have become all too common.
Tauranga’s rapid growth needs matching infrastructure—roads, public transport, water systems, parks, and community spaces—that can support the city’s expanding needs. Without these essentials, the city risks losing its appeal and livability; a case of too much demand and not enough supply.
More than just roads
Infrastructure is more than just pipes and pavement. It’s the backbone of a thriving city, influencing everything from how easy it is to get to work to the variety of community events and green spaces available. When a city has solid infrastructure, it’s more livable, resilient, and attractive to new residents and businesses alike. But when infrastructure lags, it can limit growth, push up housing costs, and even drive people away.
Tauranga’s infrastructure challenges aren’t unique; cities across New Zealand are feeling the pressure. But for Tauranga, this is being keenly felt in the city centre. While its suburbs are growing rapidly, the center has struggled to maintain its vitality. More infrastructure investment is urgently needed to make the urban center an attractive and accessible place for both residents and visitors.
Challenges facing Tauranga’s infrastructure development
Political Hiccups: Shifting government priorities have delayed projects, leaving Tauranga’s infrastructure stuck in limbo. In fact, political dysfunction led to the appointment of commissioners to oversee Tauranga’s council in 2021 after years of leadership struggles.
Costly Delays and Public Resistance: Infrastructure projects often face significant delays and budget issues. Locals may also resist large spending on new projects, especially if costs fall on current ratepayers while benefits may be enjoyed by future residents.
Aging Infrastructure: Many of Tauranga’s systems need updates. Water supply, public transport, and road networks are overdue for an upgrade, making it harder for the city to keep up with rising demand.
Filling the gap
Despite the challenges, Tauranga has plans in motion to address its infrastructure issues. Here are two major initiatives set to shape the city’s future:
The Urban Form and Transport Initiative (UFTI): Formed in 2019, this initiative is designed to create a long-term, integrated plan for development and transport. The idea is simple: give residents more housing options within the city and improve access to public amenities. The initiative also includes new public transport routes and better connections for pedestrians and cyclists, aiming to make Tauranga less car-dependent and more connected.
SmartGrowth Strategy: Covering the entire Bay of Plenty region, this ambitious, 30-year plan aims to make Tauranga and surrounding areas more sustainable by focusing on dense, well-planned development. The strategy envisions communities where residents can walk, bike, or take public transport to nearby amenities within 15 minutes, helping reduce car reliance and carbon emissions.
Short-term fixes using Temporary Urbanism
While these long-term projects are critical, they’ll take years to complete. In the meantime, Tauranga can adopt temporary solutions to keep up with current demands. “Temporary urbanism” projects like pop-up parks, community gardens, and modular spaces can make an immediate impact. By using vacant lots creatively, Tauranga can provide functional spaces for residents while working toward long-term infrastructure goals.
Building a resilient and liveable future
Tauranga has a unique opportunity to position itself as a sustainable, forward-thinking city that can meet the needs of its growing population without losing its charm. As the city moves forward, success will depend on effective planning, community engagement, and the willingness to invest in infrastructure that benefits everyone.
In the end, Tauranga’s journey is about more than just keeping up with growth—it’s about creating a place where residents want to live, work, and play for generations to come. With the right mix of immediate actions and long-term vision, Tauranga can overcome its infrastructure gap and keep its momentum going strong.